Course summary

The DPhil in Translational Health Sciences focuses on the social science of healthcare innovation and knowledge translation. You will pursue applied research in a health-related field, supervised by an interdisciplinary team. For the purposes of this course, the department defines translational health sciences as the study of the human, organisational and societal issues that impact on the adoption, dissemination and mainstreaming of research discoveries and the harnessing of such discoveries to provide effective, efficient and equitable healthcare. This DPhil, which builds on a linked MSc in Translational Health Sciences, has been developed as a partial response to national and international calls for urgent expansion of postgraduate training in the development, implementation and sustainability of innovations in healthcare. Building on a relevant masters-level qualification, you will pursue an independent piece of applied research in a health-related field, supervised by an interdisciplinary team. On completion of the DPhil, it is anticipated that you will have extended the boundaries of knowledge and undertaken an original empirical study in an aspect of translational health sciences as defined above, and to be ready to embark on independent applied research in this field. It is anticipated that most students on this DPhil will have previously completed the MSc in Translational Health Sciences. Those who apply with a different master's degree will need to complete relevant modules as short courses to address gaps in knowledge or specific research skills. These will be discussed on an individual basis. As a doctoral student on the DPhil in Translational Health Sciences, you will join other postgraduate research students in a vibrant and varied programme of peer support and extension activities, described in detail under Resources to support your study below. The department will also encourage and support you to actively build your networks with, and gain experience in, settings outside academia such as healthcare organisations, policymaking, industry and regulation. The department views the DPhil in Translational Health Sciences both as an extension of the MSc (for students seeking an academic career) and as a means of inspiring the MSc students and adding vibrancy to the MSc course. To that end, you will be encouraged to present your emerging research to MSc students in seminars or guest lectures and offer suitable small-scale projects to MSc students.